The Paleontological Research Institution has been awarded $1.46 million in funds from the 2014 Regional Economic Development Council Awards. The funds will be used to complete and expand on the extensive renovations of the Cayuga Nature Center.

"This represents a major step forward in completing what we've promised to the community," says Warren Allmon, Director of PRI. The Cayuga Nature Center has long been a favorite attraction for children and families in the region, and since officially merging with PRI, in January of 2013, there has been a move to rehabilitate the grounds and exhibits and turn it into a year round venue serving and educating local families and visiting tourists about the Cayuga Lake Basins past, present, and future.

Previous support from the Tompkins County Tourism Program, TRIAD Foundation, and an number of other individual givers provided funds to improve accessibility and to build the impressive new entrance and façade that visitors can see as they arrive at the Nature Center.

The funds from REDC will allow PRI to come close to completing their vision for the Cayuga Nature Center by supporting the hiring and retention of staff, as well as the materials and funds needed to continue expansion.

Plans include two 1,000 gallon fish tanks in the entry lobby, representing the fish of Cayuga Lake today and of 500 years ago. There will also be structural upgrades for energy efficiency, much needed improvements to the live animal rooms and exterior enclosures, as well accessibility enhancements for the trails and courtyard.

According to Beth Stricker, PRI's Exhibits Director, "This funding from New York State will make a huge difference in shaping the future of PRI and its Cayuga Nature Center. These projects are about increasing an appreciation for the world around us and fostering a sense of stewardship; they will positively impact the way visitors experience the Nature Center specifically, and the Cayuga Lake region in general."

PRI requested a total of $1,746,234, and received $249,247 from Empire State Development, and $996,987 from Market New York. $500,000 requested from Park Acquisition, Development, and Planning was denied. "PRI could not be more pleased. We asked for a healthy sum, and got almost everything we asked for. This means that we only need to modify our ideal plans a little bit, but for the most part, our greatest ideas will finally come to fruition," said Stephanie Meyer, PRI's Director of Development and Marketing.

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